The process could take up to a year My experience there has been longer but technically it can probably be done that quick but very rare to hit one year time line   Just lease it to them with option to purchase safer that way.  

great thinking ahead. if you are graduating college and have the funds you can technically buy the 4 plex once you have a job in area you are looking. school is qualifies as 2 year work history. also good to have reserves.keep in mind you can get a gift for the down payment from family or close relative.

@Andrew Tam your agent should be able to speak to this better as it relates to the specific laws in your location (or they may recommend you seek legal council), but in general how it works is the contract isn’t technically binding until the buyer provides what is called “consideration”/ delivers the earnest money.

Technically I wouldn't expect a seperate meter if it's want zoned for 3 family but you never know.

Technically I don't have to be doing this for my owner but I would prefer to try then her thinking I did nothing and not wanting to do business anymore. 

Because of this, the appraiser could not value the upstairs as gross living area since it was technically not “connected” by a heated space. 

There are things "on paper" that technically may make sense financially when it comes to real estate but we're humans and everyone is different. 

Always go after every opportunity and don't worry about people saying no because you can't technically lose what you never technically had.

The appraisal comes in low, the seller’s are pissed but somehow still willing to work with me because they are technically living in two places right now.

Also, wondering how I can structure payments to both the lender and insurance since it's technically not in my name?